Maggie Schwalbach is the founder of North Shore Executive Functioning and an ADHD-certified coach. In this conversation, we talk about what executive functioning really means, why it’s not just about focus, and how coaching helps overwhelmed students build structure, manage time, and reduce shame.
Maggie Schwalbach explains executive functioning as the brain’s management system. Coaching identifies weak spots—like time management or organization—and helps turn daily chaos into clear, workable routines.
Maggie discusses how EF coaching focuses on functional challenges—like focus, organization, and emotional regulation—regardless of diagnosis. ADHD may inform the work, but it doesn’t define it.
Using the metaphor of “Amy the Amygdala,” Maggie shows how anxiety disrupts executive functioning. Coaching helps students train their brains to keep working even when stress is present.
Maggie challenges the idea that EF coaching is just about attention. She often starts with time, organization, or inhibition—skills that support focus by addressing what’s underneath it.
Maggie reframes “try harder” narratives by teaching structure. Through tools like checklists and walkthroughs, coaching turns invisible expectations into clear, manageable systems.
Maggie explains how coaching helps high-performing teens manage time across work, rest, and play. The goal is sustainable self-regulation—not just short-term rewards.
